The most intensely personal coming-of-age angst since a certain band from Seattle shook the world. "Wasted Days" will sweep you into 9 minutes of frustration and guitars exploding in a climactic rage. Push play and hold on!
Husker Du and Sugar mastermind returns to form with his finest work since "Copper Blue". Every song is a melodically buzzing, distortion-filled roar of joy. Welcome back Bob!
3. Neil Young - "Psychedelic Pill"
Neil Young and Crazy Horse dazzle with a double disc of hazy, fuzzed-out, whirling guitar jam genius! Puts bands a third of their age to shame. Forget Clapton, Neil is God!
4. Ian Hunter - "When I'm President"
A songwriting clinic from a 72 year-old master of the form. His voice is resplendent as he continues an amazing run of outstanding albums. The guitar solo in "Black Tears"is searing!
5. Jack White - "Blunderbuss"
The guitar crunch and yelp of "Sixteen Saltines" alone is enough to propel White's first solo effort into my top ten but there's plenty more to enjoy from his seemingly endless sonic well.
Most appropriately named release of the year. The rush of speeding drums, guitars on the edge of falling apart and booming choruses deliver a beautiful exhaustion. Highly recommended.
7. The Tallest Man On Earth - "There's No Leaving Now"
Sweden's Kristian Matsson delivers a gorgeous follow-up to "The Wild Hunt". His songwriting excellence, guitar prowess and unique voice make this an acoustic oasis amidst a sea of sameness.
8. Redd Kross - "Researching The Blues"
A Power Pop/Rock tour de force highlighted by the hook laden monster "Stay Away From Downtown". These guys have never sounded better!
9. Lightships - "Electric Cables"
Float away on the sublime melodies and arrangements of Teenage Fanclub's Gerard Love. This is an especially alluring work destined to be played often. Simply beautiful.
10. Nada Surf - "The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy"
Matthew Caws and Co. can be counted on to make memorably radiant music with each release and this is no exception. Special assist by Doug Gillard on guitar - nice!
Honorable Mention - Library Time - "Library Time", Tame Impala - "Lonerism", Gary Clark Jr. - "Blak & Blu", DIIV - "Oshin", Joey Ramone - "...Ya Know", Lotus Plaza - "Spooky at a Distance", First Aid Kit - Lion's Roar", Band Of Horses - "Mirage Rock" Ramona Falls - "Prophet" The Shins - "Port Of Morrow", King Tuff - "King Tuff"
